This year marks the emergence of Brood XIV cicadas after 17 years, driven by rising ground temperatures. Alongside their mating frenzy, a fungus called Massospora cicadina enhances their sexual behaviors, leading to heightened mating among these insects. This phenomenon raises questions about nature's complexity, as the fungus essentially hijacks the cicadas' reproductive systems, turning them into 'zombies' with excessive mating urges. These insects are crucial for the ecosystem, and their brief above-ground life culminates in reproduction before they die, leaving a legacy for future generations.
The phenomenon of cicadas emerging every 17 years is enhanced this time by a fungus that increases their mating urges, creating a bizarre intersection of nature and horror.
The Massospora cicadina fungus acts like a zombie controller, manipulating male cicadas to mate excessively, as they become almost like sex-crazed zombies.
Cicadas emerge in droves to mate, and this yearâs emergence is particularly striking due to the added influence of the genital-destroying fungus affecting their behavior.
Entomologists note the cyclical behavior of periodical cicadas and how after significant underground hibernation, they surface to find mates before passing away within weeks.
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